In “Fighter,” a special Indian Air Force task group, led by top pilot ‘Patty’ (Hrithik Roshan), is formed to combat terrorists in Kashmir. Directed by Siddharth Anand, known for blockbusters like “Pathaan”, “War” and “Bang Bang,” the film creates an immersive experience as it portrays the relentless courage of the Indian Air Force.
Set against real-life events like the Pulwama terror attack and India’s retaliatory strike in Balakot, “Fighter” follows Commanding Officer Rocky (Anil Kapoor) as he assembles a team of top IAF fighter pilots, including Patty and Minni (Deepika Padukone), to form a special unit called Air Dragons. Together, they display camaraderie, brotherhood, and serve moments of levity amidst the challenges of combat.
The storyline, co-written by Anand and Ramon Chibb, offers a mix of action, emotion, patriotism, and romance. While the film captures the adrenaline rush of aerial combat, its predictability and average dialogue detract from the impact of the narrative. Despite these shortcomings, the smooth screenplay by Chibb keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, complemented by Satchith Paulose’s cinematography, which captures stunning locales and adds to the visual experience. While the pace dips in the second half, the film picks up momentum towards an enthralling climax.
Performance-wise, Deepika Padukone delivers a convincing act, showcasing her growth as an action star, while Anil Kapoor shines as a strict and brooding officer. Karan Singh Grover and Akshay Oberoi impress in their respective roles, adding depth to the storyline.
The antagonist, portrayed by Rishabh Sawhney, portrays Azhar Akhtar, the leader of the terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammad, with a strong introduction scene that adds freshness to the screen. However, his character fails to leave an impact as the lead antagonist, making him one of the weakest negative portrayals in a war drama. Despite his initial impact, there is little menace or terror in his portrayal.
Despite its flaws, “Fighter” offers engaging entertainment, celebrating love for the country without resorting to clichéd patriotism. It’s a film that delivers a pure paisa vasool experience, leaving viewers with a sense of pride and excitement.
